By Caleb Kuleke
Ho, Sept. 24, GNA- Mafi-Zortikpo, a community in the Central Tongu District of the Volta Region, is taking the necessary steps to tackle drug abuse among the youth.
Togbe Dordoe IV, the Chief of Mafi-Zortikpo, told Ghana News Agency (GNA) that he and his traditional council had drafted bye-laws to combat the rising drug menace within the community.
He stated that the proposed regulation, which included a total ban on the sale of illicit drugs and public smoking had been forwarded to the Central Tongu District Assembly for formal approval.
According to Togbe Dordoe, once the bye-laws take effect, first-time offenders would receive a formal caution; however, persistent violators would face a fixed fine of GHS 2,000.00 or reported to the law enforcement agencies.
The chief revealed that internal research conducted by his council identified individuals retailing hard drugs within the community.
Togbe Dordoe said some vendors had resorted to lacing alcoholic beverages with illicit substances before selling them.
The traditional leader noted that individuals implicated in selling these laced beverages had already been summoned and strongly cautioned.
The Chief issued a stern warning to others currently involved or planning to enter the illicit trade to desist immediately.
He expressed grave concern over the situation, noting that substance abuse was taking a severe toll on the youth, jeopardising their future prospects.
Togbe Dordoe urged the youth to uphold Ghanaian cultural values rather than blindly mimicking foreign lifestyles.
He specifically criticised inappropriate foreign dress styles that lead some young people to expose vital parts of their bodies in public.
The traditional leader reminded parents of their duty to instill discipline and wisdom in their children.
While acknowledging that children had rights, he emphasised that parents must maintain parental authority, actively monitor their children’s activities and invest in their education and upbringing.
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah